We sow seeds in the natural, but we do the same spiritually. A dictionary definition of the word “sow” points to the natural side when it says:
To scatter seed in the ground for the purpose of growth.
What is “seed?” Again, according to the dictionary:
That from which anything springs.
But then it moves the definition from the natural to the spiritual, when it adds this one word: PRINCIPLES. Christians, therefore, should be about the business of sowing principles into minds and hearts. If we do so, according to the definition, they will be the source from which good things spring.
The Scripture deals directly with this in Galatians 6:7-9:
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary.
This is a principle of cause and effect. Generally speaking, we will reap what we sow. That doesn’t mean that everything goes the way we would desire, but it does hold out the promise that God has set things up in such a way that we can be assured He will reward those who sow His truths.
The last part of the Scriptual passage is particularly appealing, promising that if we maintain our faith in sowing His principles, and do not give up, we will definitely reap according to His will. That promise brings hope in our current cultural and political situation. It means that no matter how difficult times may become, no matter how hypocritical men in power may be, no matter how the darkness may seem to overwhelm—God and His promises remain. We can always count on that.